noun
altercation
awl-tuh-KAYSHN
Altercation (noun) means a noisy or angry argument, often in public. Example: “Witnesses described a loud altercation outside the bar.”
noun
1
A noisy or angry argument, often in public.
"Witnesses described a loud altercation outside the bar."
"The two drivers got into a heated altercation after the crash."
How to use altercation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sharp, angry exchange of words — a row or shouting match.
When to use it
Fairly formal; often used in news reports and legal contexts rather than casual speech.
Common pairings
a heated altercation
get into an altercation
physical altercation
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Word forms
- Plural
- altercations
Fill the gap
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Witnesses described a loud _____ outside the bar.
Etymology
Borrowed from Latin altercatio, a term for a heated verbal dispute.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for altercation
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for altercation →
Frequently asked questions
What does “altercation” mean?
The word “altercation” means a noisy or angry argument, often in public. In plain terms, a sharp, angry exchange of words — a row or shouting match.
How do you pronounce “altercation”?
“Altercation” is pronounced awl-tuh-KAYSHN (/ˌɔltɚˈkeɪʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “altercation” in a sentence?
Here is “altercation” used in a sentence: “Witnesses described a loud altercation outside the bar.”
What part of speech is “altercation”?
“Altercation” is a noun.
Where does the word “altercation” come from?
The word “altercation” comes from Latin. Borrowed from Latin altercatio, a term for a heated verbal dispute.
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